‘Be versatile, and always update your design portfolio’

Imran Ladak, 26, has been dabbling in graphic design for five years. He recently took up a full-time job at a design studio in Khar. He continues freelancing and has worked on everything from logos and menus to brochures and hoardings for restaurants, spas, paint companies, architectural firms and BPOs.

What kind of formal training do you have in design?After my BCom, I went to the London College of Communication for a little over a year, where I did a graduate diploma course in visual communication. But formal training is not a prerequisite.

Is this a growing industry in Mumbai?Absolutely. Five years ago, I would get hired mainly by established businesses, to do stationery and visiting cards. Now I get commissioned to make a personalised clock, an invitation for an anniversary party, a series of walls in an industrialist’s home — all this along with the usual corporate stuff. Design is now sought after by individuals too.

What is considered a good portfolio in graphic design?Diversity is good. It shows that you’re versatile. I began my portfolio with college assignments and hypothetical campaigns, then replaced them one by one with real-world work. Always keep your portfolio updated, may be with a little write-up or concept note about each design.

What is the pay like? Monetarily, graphic designing is very rewarding. Monthly retainerships can go up to Rs 60,000, and you can easily take up four or five brands at a time. One logo can net Rs 60,000 to Rs 90,000, depending on the client.

What’s the toughest part of your job?Abandoning perfectly good concepts and designs just because the client thinks they are no good.